Crack Climbing Technique

Learn to Climb Granite Splitters

I still remember getting my first gobi (crack climbing scar) on a hand crack in Joshua Tree and successfully climbing my first splitter in Index. Come practice one of my favorite styles of climbing at my favorite crags. With a variety of cracks to choose from, we can work on hand jams, finger locks, hand stacks and more. It’s all about figuring out which part of your body best fits the rock! 

  • Available in Index June-Sept, Joshua Tree Oct-April

  • Max 4:1 climber to guide ratio 

  • Prices vary by number of climbers 

  • 1 day course  

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Crack Climbing Course Description 

This course is focused on practicing movement technique on a variety of different crack sizes. Participants will have the opportunity to top-rope several routes that present unique styles; we’ll try finger cracks, hand cracks, offwidth cracks, and maybe even a squeeze chimney! Climbers will learn:

  • Different methods for protecting your hands and skin, including taping and crack gloves

  • Hand and foot jamming techniques

  • Finger locks and ring locks

  • Fist jams

  • Hand stacks and butterflies 

  • Calf locks and heel-toe cams

  • Different techniques for straight in splitters, corners, slanting cracks, and more! 

Climber Guidelines

Index is known for steep and difficult crack climbing, and Joshua Tree is known for its irregular flared cracks and general trickery. Having some previous climbing experience is necessary for this course. In order to have a positive learning experience, it’s recommended that climbers are able to:

  • Top-rope 5.8 outdoors without falling or taking. 

  • Comfortably top-rope belay

What’s Included

  • All group climbing gear (ropes, anchor materials, lead protection)

  • Guiding and instruction 

What’s Not Included

  • Personal climbing equipment (helmet, harness, shoes, chalk, belay device)

  • Transportation and food

Contact me for available dates!

I don’t have any specific dates scheduled for clinics - all guiding and instruction is custom! Contact me to find dates that will work for you or your group.